Trump adds Turnberry to his list of golf courses

May 16th, 2014 / Michael Court

It was an opportunity that American billionaire Donald Trump couldn’t resist.

After overseeing the design and construction of one of Scotland’s most heralded links, Trump International, on the east coast, north of Aberdeen, Trump has now secured the purchase of Turnberry Resort on Scotland’s west coast.

Turnberry Golf Course

Trump, a single-figure marker himself, admitted he wasn’t looking specifically to buy the British Open venue but could not pass up the chance when an inquiry revealed it might be on the market.

“It was an opportunity, as far as I was concerned,” said Trump.

“Turnberry is considered one of the greatest courses in the world.

“It’s a special place. It’s an important place.”

According to reports in a London newspaper, Trump forked out £37.5 million in purchasing his 17th golf property worldwide.

Of course Turnberry’s Ailsa course has hosted four Open Championships and it’s no secret Trump has long harboured an ambition to host a major on one of “his” courses.

Now he gets that opportunity.

“Some of the greatest championships in the history of golf have taken place at Turnberry,” Trump said.

“And the golf course itself is considered one of the greatest in the world. Some rate it as the best in the world.”

“I’m not going to touch a thing unless the Royal and Ancient ask for it or approve it.”

“I have the greatest respect for the R&A and I won’t do anything to the golf course at all without their full stamp of approval.”

What Trump does want to improve is the famous Turnberry Hotel where he wants to bring a new level of luxury in turning it into one of the world’s finest.